The Green Bay Packers used the 175th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL draft on Minnesota linebacker Kamal Martin.
Martin (6-2, 240) produced 177 tackles, 13.0 tackles for losses, 3.5 sacks, nine pass breakups and four interceptions over 45 games and 18 starts for the Golden Gophers.
Martin started 17 games over the last two years. He played both on the edge and at off-ball linebacker.
Martin ranked as Dane Brugler’s 20th best inside linebacker in the 2020 class.
From Brugler’s draft guide: “Overall, Martin checks boxes with his length and play strength, but his average speed is exposed due to his underdeveloped anticipation and read/react skills, projecting as a special teamer and developmental backup.”
The Packers had a big need at inside linebacker behind expected starter Christian Kirksey.
